Spring Fun and Fund Drive



Welcome to this first organic Spring Fund Drive: “What does c99 mean to you?"

Why have a community fund drive? Because monthly recurring contributions have dropped more than sixty percent from two years ago; and presently, the site is at the mercy of less than a handful of generous monthly contributors. That’s why. Thought you all would want to know.

Let’s do what we can, renew and increase our past commitments a little or step forward and help for the first time. In community and collectively, whatever you can afford, goes a long way.

In Saturday's OT, i reached out to the community and asked for members to share in advance what c99 means to them in words. music, art and fun and today i'm delighted and grateful to post the wonderful responses received thus far. Please join in celebrating our May Day endeavor.

Today, everyone's a host. After all, "if you have a garden, a library and c99, you have everything you need." ~ Cicero Smile

~~~

I read many publications, but c99p is the only one I contribute to because of the independent nature of the site. The authors who contribute here bring us a range of topics I cannot get anywhere else. I rely on c99p to bring me the truth of what is really going on in our America. They read an enormous amount of articles and watch an incredible number of videos to drill down to truth. We are allowed to voice our preferences, our concerns, to comment without attack. If a difference of opinion occurs, it is swiftly derailed and parties agree to disagree. I also have a selfish reason, I want to keep this place ad-free. If we can fund JtC’s efforts and expenses that go with running a site, no ads will grace our screens. I’m in favor.

Help us keep this site independent. ~ Raggedy Ann

Music courtesy of Dawn's Meta

Caucus99 is not only a place to get news, but participate in lively discussions about topics of interest to those concerned about situations in the world. This is one of the few places where world events are covered in real time and with input with experts in the field.
Those are reasons why Caucus99 is the place to get the news but it is also a close knit community of readers who share music, videos, and other messages within their essays. My husband who was an early contributor to Caucus99 died unexpectedly and the outpouring of kind words and sympathy have helped me through these early days of moving on. He and I both made monthly donations and I have continued both of the donations because of what this community means to me. I have also made a one time donation in his memory to Caucus99. ~ jakkalbessie

Photo courtesy of magiamma

C99 is the place I visit regularly to think and exercise my mind. It could be a thoughtful opinion, sound, visual picture or current event that evokes careful reflection and pondering.

There are fewer places in the world for give and take of different and changing opinions as we all move through our lives. To step out of the boxes are lives are defined takes time, a few missteps and understanding of those the events that have taken place in the past. Breaking out of multi generations of propaganda is difficult. C99 community has created such a space.

Mt Jefferson, a constant presence in my life. ~ Studentofearth

What can I say about c99p? Non-question, I can say anything I damn well please, that is part of the magic here. What should I say, what in all honesty ethically and aesthetically am I obligated to say? I guess that I could say that "you're either on the bus or you're off the bus", but I feel that more is probably called for.

I am not one to wax poetic about even something so overwhelmingly wonderful as c99p. It would be unforgivably remiss, however, were I to fail to mention that this is the home of Joe's inimitable Evening Blues, so, there I did so."

What this place is is a gathering of people (and a gathering spot for people) who appreciate the importance and merit of free and open discussion and communication and who don't fear to engage in such. It is a place not saddled with the constant nagging questioning of whether it is permissible, or safe, to bring up or support this or that idea or position or theory, to advocate for some political action or faction or a preference for quiet omphaloskepsis instead. There is no site ideology, dogma, or goal. There are no barricades here to fence you in, and none to hide behind either. Beyond that it is a family, not of like thinkers, but of those who like to think, where we are all, nonetheless, free to be as silly as we please and even bat-shit crazy too. It is an oddly sacred space. It is home. ~ enhydra lutris

Been occupied elsewhere the past few days. But I want to at least say a bit about what c99 means to me.

At C99 I find real news, intellectual inspiring essays and comments, advice and encouragement, and great compassion for all contributors. C99 is a major part of my life now. Beautiful people are here. ~ mhagle

C99 is a place where I can read about what's really going on in politics and in the world. I think of the people that post on c99 as "my people" - people that can see through the propaganda that's infected almost everyone else; people that know what the real problems are; people that care.

C99 is a light in the darkness, a raft in the floodwaters, and an oasis in the desert. ~ Jen

Caucus 99 % is meaningful for the combined cleverness and comraderie shared in an open format. Ideas and feelings are developed in this atmosphere of entertaining a better way forward. Turns funk into fun. Thanks! ~ QMS

Even when I am not around, I think of this community.

We could be an echo chamber of like-minded thinkers. But, thankfully there is room for multiple views on a topic or two; divergent views; downright disagreements. For the most part very civil and no ad homs thrown. I like this aspect a lot.

But even more, I like the thoughtfulness; the intelligence; the critical thinking; the amazing analysis and well-researched reporting. Marvelous.

Finally, the emphasis on our planet as our home: gardening; sustainability; creation and communication; photography; birds and critters. Lovely.~ Dawn's Meta

It is a place I can come to for release.
Release of pent up anger, bitterness, and hate for mine enemies.
I don't think the other caucusgoers absorb it.
I think they too rid themselves of it.
I don't know where it goes.
But somewhere, there is a shiton of it.
We just need to figure out where it all is, and how to pick it up, and drop it on the White House.
Thanks for being there. ~ earthling1

Definition of oasis

1: a fertile or green area in an arid region (such as a desert)

In a social media wasteland where insults reign over ideas, C99 provides a fertile environment for discussion and information. We have an embarrassment of riches here with writers and contributors from all over the world who have life experiences that add real value here. Smart, witty, thoughtful and generous with their ideas, there are few communities that can match what we do here everyday in terms of providing an environment where you can express yourself and learn from others.

2: something that provides refuge, relief, or pleasant contrast

The 2016 election was a time where the dismantling of my political worldview left me feeling unmoored, angry, and violated in ways I could not have imagined. C99 provided the only sane place where political refugees like myself could gather to make sense of the shifting reality we were experiencing in real time. It was a place where I could go to find refuge, relief, and amusing banter with fellow travelers. ~ Anja Geitz

Many of us came to c99 when things became more toxic than usual over at a certain website we frequented. It was bizarre to watch that site go from 'crashing the gates' to 'protecting the status quo.'

It was good to have c99 for a refuge. It has always been a place of intelligence and good intentions. I would have been lost without it when I suddenly quit blogging at big orange. I suspect there may be others who might feel that way.

Thanks to all c99ers for being a part of this place. I appreciate all the friendship and support I have received here. I will always support c99 as I think it is a force for good in the universe. Please do all you can to keep caucus99percent.com alive and thriving. Thank You ~ OPOL

C99p is my only life line to the US since I had to go back to Germany and it is very important to me to just understand the country, where I lived for the last 35 years. I was isolated in the US and am even more now that I am back in Germany. So, I hope that C99p will make it through the hard times to come. I would be miserable without having their anchor to rescue me. I'll drop something in JtC's piggy bank. ~ mimi

"This community is an island of sanity in a world of misinformation and propaganda. I normally check the site in the morning...catching up with Joe's always excellent Evening Blues, gjohns regular news reports, and whatever else was submitted in the last day. Most days I'll drop a comment in the Open Thread and say hello. I work through the week developing and adding to my Sunday Weekly Watch column. Writing that piece helps me to process the week's news, and I hope adds clarity to the murky, misleading corporate news. I feel like I'm friends with many of you who are regular participants, and I've come to rely on you all to help me understand aspects of our society and world. You have helped my political views to evolve...To better understand the unreliable votes we cast, the prison of the duopoly which is a single corporate party with two faces, the control of the oligarchs over so many aspects of our lives, the nature of an economy hell bent on destroying the biosphere and promoting war, and much more.

"And behind the curtain, the person who makes it all happen is JtC. His equipment, time, and devotion to this community is outstanding and those of us with some where-with-all should help him continue helping us. My understanding is that regular monthly contributions help the most, providing a reliable budget. If like me you value this community, and can afford it, please consider becoming a regular contributor. Thank you all for being in this community and contributing your thoughts and ideas. Let's keep growing!" ~ Lookout


A shout out to snoopydawg who sends her love and best wishes. She has to be away today.

“There's a lot that I appreciate about this place. The warmth, the lightness, the knowledge, the music, the art, the uniqueness of everyone.” ~ janis b

“Talk is cheap … that’s right honey” …

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Comments

Lookout's picture

Thanks for putting this together smiley. I enjoyed reading everyone's take on our community. It makes me realize why I participate and enjoy our conversation.

I hope some of the folks who missed the call will add their thoughts below.

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“Until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”

Raggedy Ann's picture

let's pony up and continue to make this the best blog on the internet!
Thoughts from our friends:
Ad free - check!
Great discussions - check!
World events covered - check!
Ability to exercise your mind here - check!
A light in the darkness - check!
A raft in floodwaters - check!
An oasis in the desert - check!
Cleverness and camaraderie - check!
Divergent views acceptable - check!
Ability to release pent up anger, bitterness, & hate for enemies - check!
A place of refuge - check!
A place of intelligence and good intentions - check!
A lifeline to the good ol' US of A - check!
An island of sanity in a world of misinformation and propaganda - check!
The uniqueness of everyone - check!
Our leader ~ JtC - check!

So many reasons to keep this place afloat. Pony up, my friends! Pleasantry

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"The “jumpers” reminded us that one day we will all face only one choice and that is how we will die, not how we will live." Chris Hedges on 9/11

Anja Geitz's picture

@Raggedy Ann

Love ya!

Will be increasing my monthly donation - check!

Kiss 2

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

Raggedy Ann's picture

@Anja Geitz
Pleasantry

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"The “jumpers” reminded us that one day we will all face only one choice and that is how we will die, not how we will live." Chris Hedges on 9/11

janis b's picture

@Raggedy Ann

Wonderfully high standards that are all alive here.

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how very gracious of you, and thank you to all c99 members, without you this site would be nothing.

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smiley7's picture

@JtC
in us

You are the greatest cause without you, your creation and continued 24/7 dedication to c99, we wouldn't be here.

I've faith that when this news gets around; our members will chip in.

Thank you, JtC.

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janis b's picture

@smiley7

Tony the Tiger is JtC's alter ego.

Thanks for everything smiley.

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mimi's picture

@JtC
Usually in life I know how much costs what I consider essential for my own well-being. But I have absolutely no idea what it costs to maintain this site and your work and as this site contributes hugely to my well-being, I think we have to have "the talk" about it.

May be, it is a super important secret and the threat of being transparent about it, would be so grave that the Russians are going to nuke JtC's server. But I took care of that, JtC, as you know Putino sometimes sleeps under my bed and he assured me he would just ignore this site and you and be a nice boy.

All of you are for transparency, afaik, in politics, so why not when it comes to money?
Once in my life I worked as an accountant and that experience taught me that the crooks hide behind their numbers, which are usually victims of intentional manipulations.

But JtC ain't no crook. So something doesn't rhyme. What is it?

How much does it cost on a monthly basis to you to keep going without feeing abused by our radical C99ers appetite for a functional site 24h/7d week after week after year after year.? I am sure peanuts won't do it and all I have are peanuts.

Where is the money? Money money in the poor men's world wouldn't be that bad either.

[video:https://youtu.be/ETxmCCsMoD0]

Have some fun and lots of money coming in tonight.

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Thank you, and same to all who donate and support c99. Let's keep this place thumpin.' Donation made. Wish it could be more. Keep up the good work.

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Anja Geitz's picture

I looked for you when I got up this morning but then had a few things to do. Apologies for being tardy!

I'd like to begin with a big shoutout to JtC who keeps the wheels in motion each and every day. You have been so helpful to me with the site related questions I've had recently. Your guidance and your patience have provided me a corner on this site where I can write and contribute to the community. No small thing in this big bad world.

Enjoyed the wonderful collection of submissions here today! It's so interesting to read the different reasons we come here, and why we value C99. We have so many wonderful people here who, like me, feel appreciative of what this little community brings to our day. In the spirit of that sentiment, I would also like to increase the amount of my monthly donation.

And finally my heartfelt gratitude to every community member out there reading this, I hope the appreciation you feel for C99 will encourage you to donate what you can. A little each month from enough of us can really help JtC keep the site we love running smoothly!

Stickers and lollipops for everyone!

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

WaterLily's picture

I wanted to contribute my reflections, but have really been bogged down by deadlines and obligations. Still, it's important to me that I "up" my very modest monthly contribution by a few notches ... which I'm going to do post-haste.

I hope everyone who can, will do the same. If not, even a one-time donation, no matter the amount, makes a difference!

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WaterLily's picture

@WaterLily in allowing me to easily figure out how to modify an existing recurring donation.

So this may take awhile ... but I'll get there!

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smiley7's picture

@WaterLily
helping out. Sorry for the stubborn paypal.

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WaterLily's picture

@WaterLily I had to cancel my existing recurring donation and create a new one (really, PayPal?!), but I'm so happy to be able to contribute just a tiny bit extra to this crucial campaign.

Expecting a few ARs of my own next week so I'm going to make a special one-time as well.

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Donated. It ain't much. I agree with everything said above. c99 posters are very intelligent and attractive.

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smiley7's picture

@Snode

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magiamma's picture

for everything you do. This place gives me hope.

And there is more good news to celebrate.

'Activism Works': UK Parliament Makes History in Declaring Climate Emergency
(From Common Dreams)

So much depends on being able to speak freely together. Thank you JtC especially.

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Stop Climate Change Silence - Start the Conversation

Hot Air Website, Twitter, Facebook

Anja Geitz's picture

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

Sima's picture

I'm a long time lurker. Long time, like from before the banishment at TOS time. I love this site, I read it every night if possible. I'm almost always 'late' and reading stuff a day or two after it's published, but still I read. And, I learn, and learn. This site is very important to me.

I usually donate twice a year to keep the site going. I will be upping that donation a bit. However, would it be better if I took that lump sum, divided it by six and started donating once a month?

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If you're poor now, my friend, then you'll stay poor.
These days, only the rich get given more. -- Martial book 5:81, c. AD 100 or so
Nothing ever changes -- Sima, c. AD 2020 or so

smiley7's picture

@Sima

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@Sima

I have the same question. I just don't like paypal, but I suppose I could relent.

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"Religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich."--Napoleon

wendy davis's picture

see how many of you can contribute every month, and that some of you are increasing your donations. while i appreciate the dickens out of this place, and JtC's monumental efforts, we just can't afford to support c99% financially.

we're on a bare-bones fixed income, and right now our hogan needs a new roof, and our 1949 8-N tractor needs new tires for the big back wheels. while we try not to worry about money and we're always find just enough for what we really need, there's just no way we can afford to even contribute a tenner a month. sorry, JtC. if wishes were horses, and all that...

what i can and will offer today is a request that blue onyx had made earlier: to being the keys to my nature photos at flicker. she'd mentioned the flowers, as it's just turned spring, and you can toggle that album if you care to, but these are photos of birds and four-legged critters that visit our 'yard'. we've planted over 200 trees and shrubs as we homesteaded this place, and the wildlife love it as a green oasis between the mountains and the desert in SW colorado.

may peace be with you, and all of us in these fraught times...when even equanimity is hard to come by, much less inner peace.

this should work for the critters slideshow, and come to think of it i might be able to link the flowers, butterflies, and bees ass well. ain't workin', looks as though if i give you this address, you should be able to toggle the slideshow in the upper right-hand corner on the teevee screen icon under the royal blue bar. if you hover your cursor over it, it should say 'toggle sideshow'.

please feel free to borrow any you'd like, but if you're aiming to rint them, choose the highest resolutions. i hope this works; fingers crossed.

on edit: well, it kinda/sorta worked, but it looks as though you'll have to toggle both slideshows yourselves.

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@wendy davis
over the years that if anyone can't afford to pitch in that is perfectly fine, no pressure. I've been there myself, not being able to contribute to a site that I loved and posted on frequently. I know how that feels and I don't wish anyone here feel that way. All I ask is for folks to contribute what they can.

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Unabashed Liberal's picture

@wendy davis

you for sharing them with us. May take you up on using a critter photo, or two (via screenshot)--with attribution to you, of course!

Been in your shoes, and had to hold off contributing until we finally paid off Mr M's tremendous RX tab--over $10,000, in less than three years. (Of course, we're fortunate to have excellent coverage regarding our actual medical/surgical services/procedures. For that, we're most grateful.)

BTW, thank you for your excellent writing, too.

Pleasantry

Mollie

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.
~~Gilda Radner, Comedienne

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Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.

janis b's picture

@Unabashed Liberal

for your very special contribution to individual and community welfare. It is so sincere and warm.

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Unabashed Liberal's picture

@janis b

of our fabulous C99 Friday Nite Photography OT. Now, that's a truly substantive contribution, and one that is rightfully appreciated by all. So, let's hear it for you. Clapping

Hey, even knowing that I'm not deserving of your super kind and generous words, gotta admit that they're encouraging, and nice to hear. Smile Which reminds me, I know I'm not alone when I say that you most definitely have a wonderful knack for 'lifting up' your fellow C99'ers--thank you.

If we're not moving (as in travel) Friday, hope to catch up with all you Guys at the Photography OT. I can always read it over the weekend, but, it's definitely more fun to participate/engage with Everyone.

Mollie

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.
~~Gilda Radner, Comedienne

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Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.

janis b's picture

@Unabashed Liberal

for all your appreciation, and for making our ‘lifting’ so much lighter.

‘Deserving’ is a concept that I find difficult to associate myself with. I think we do what we can in the interest of what is life sustaining. It's mutually rewarding, as I know you know.

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@janis b

intelligent, unusually insightful comments. So, I'll jump on this opportunity: That's just nuts.

‘Deserving’ is a concept that I find difficult to associate myself with.

You are highly deserving. Your contributions here shine like beautifully-cut, highly-polished diamonds. Eminently sane diamonds, too, completely unlike in this Pink Floyd song about former member Sid:

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UXircX3VdM]

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janis b's picture

@HenryAWallace

Am I nuts or sane. You called me both ; )

Thanks for the exceptional piece of music.

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@janis b

Then again, I sometimes have trouble making up my mind.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMaE6toi4mk]

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janis b's picture

@HenryAWallace

And the Clash song was a perfect choice to complete the fun. I kept hearing “am I nuts or am I sane?”, in place of “should I stay or should I go?” That’s such a funny song and great performance. Thanks Henry.

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@janis b

Glad I made you laugh.

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janis b's picture

@HenryAWallace

for sharing the pleasure of laughter.

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WaterLily's picture

@wendy davis I can't do "even a tenner" a month, either. I'm kinda embarrassed myself about what I can do, and that could be an actual topic for an essay, but it would be so long and convoluted that no one would read it.

Your contribution is in your always-excellent and well-researched content. So glad you're here.

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travelerxxx's picture

@WaterLily

Your contribution is in your always-excellent and well-researched content. So glad you're here.

Amen to that!

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enhydra lutris's picture

maybe not until i get back home. Everybody be well and have a great one.

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That, in its essence, is fascism--ownership of government by an individual, by a group, or by any other controlling private power. -- Franklin D. Roosevelt --

smiley7's picture

@enhydra lutris
for c99.

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WaterLily's picture

@enhydra lutris I hope you've had the chance (or will have the chance) to visit Mercado San Miguel!

Remember that movie The Terminal? I'd like to star in a movie called El Mercado.

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Unabashed Liberal's picture

if I may add something to address members (like me) who simply don't use banking/credit union, or PayPal recurrent services--another way to help, is to sorta figure what you'd be able to spare monthly, and send it to JtC via snail mail. (Sorta like paying annual dues.) If you contact him, he'll give you the P.O. Box mailing address. Works fine.

Now, I realize that a recurring monthly contribution has its merits, and, is probably preferable, but, wouldn't want folks to figure that their help is not welcome, unless they do an electronic payment.

(Hope it's okay with JtC and you to mention this alternate method.)

My thanks to you, Smiley, for your excellent and (literally) uplifting Saturday essays!

And, of course, my deepest gratitude and "thanks" to you, JtC, for all your selfless hard work, and talent expended in providing us with this Safe Haven--literally, a "Life Boat" for people like me, who are left of Zinn. Give rose

Also, much 'thanks' to our other Admin, Joe, and for his excellent work at EB! Clapping

Certainly, many of us would have no place to go that'd allow us to freely voice our opinions--especially, our Independent and (sometimes) Third Party sentiments/voices, which mostly don't echo typical Dem Party talking points.

Hope C99 reaches, if not surpasses, the target recurring contributions, and more!

Mollie

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.
~~Gilda Radner, Comedienne

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Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.

Anja Geitz's picture

@Unabashed Liberal

For reasons that are too stupid to recount (I forgot my password), I cannot access my pay pal account and am loathe to go through their torturous verification process. Therefore, when I sit down and write a check to my landlord every month, I write another one to C99 and pop them both off in the mailbox.

Easy peasy.

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

Unabashed Liberal's picture

@Anja Geitz

log in the other day, so, allow me to, belatedly, offer my heartfelt "congrats" to you!

Think you have the ability and talent to go far as a serious (professional) food writer, or any kind, for that matter. And, judging from your weekly PMs, your knack for 'marketing' isn't too shabby, either.

Smile

"Break a leg," as they say.

Pleasantry

Mollie

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.
~~Gilda Radner, Comedienne

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Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.

Anja Geitz's picture

@Unabashed Liberal

Blush

I appreciate the encouragement and good will I've been getting not only from this community but from friends, family, and co-workers. Fellow crew members have also been suggesting names for my soon to be Instagram account. We've narrowed it down to "Anja's Happy Plate", or as my friend Rocco likes to say "Anja's Crappy Plate", lol. Notwithstanding Rocco's contribution, I kinda like the first one.

I'm excited and a little nervous. I have a lot of people asking me when they can follow me on Instagram, so I better decide on a name soon!

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

joe shikspack's picture

@Anja Geitz

you could always try alliteration...

anja's alimentary academy? Smile

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Anja Geitz's picture

@joe shikspack

is for the name to be easy for people to remember. Lol.

One of the guys at work came up with "Anja Plate".

Because my name is pronounced "An-Ya" he thought it a clever pun, as in "on ya plate". When I reminded him that my name is spelled with a "j" and most people mistakenly pronounce it that way, he was still was undeterred.

Now the managers are even saying it. Lol.

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

WaterLily's picture

@Anja Geitz I have to admit, I kinda like the "On ya plate" pun. Maybe it's reason enough to use a slightly-different nom de plume!

So excited for you.

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Anja Geitz's picture

@WaterLily

But I'm pretty "happy" with the name I came up with. In fact, I played around with a draft design for my Instagram account that's really growing on me:

image_147.jpg

How's that for exciting? My name is part of a logo! Lol.

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

polkageist's picture

Here is a portion of what I wrote for a bio back in 2016 when I first came here: "People are finally beginning to figure out that the elites have won most of what they have been striving for since the New Deal. I've been waiting 40 years for enough truly moral people with skeptical, inquisitive minds to coalesce into a critical mass. You are here and I will do what I can to help with the time and strength I have left."

I feel exactly like everyone else about this site. You are all important to me. I'm here daily either lurking or saying something. Such a diverse, bright group is a treasure. Whether we agree or not isn't important just that we can hear and be heard. That is the reason I contribute every month .

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-Greed is not a virtue.
-Socialism: the radical idea of sharing.
-Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable.
John F. Kennedy, In a speech at the White House, 1962

Anja Geitz's picture

@polkageist

Such a diverse, bright group is a treasure. Whether we agree or not isn't important just that we can hear and be heard. That is the reason I contribute every month

.

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

janis b's picture

@polkageist

[video:https://youtu.be/KfdhUgru_Pw]

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WaterLily's picture

@janis b I'm really glad you're here!

Your wit, your deep empathy, and your unmatched ability to find exactly the right song for the right situation is a treasure.

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janis b's picture

@WaterLily

I'm at a loss for words and music ; )

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snoopydawg's picture

I agree with every one of them. My brain is a little fuzzy so I'll let Snoopy and Charlie Brown speak for me. Thanks everyone who makes this blue blog great. Especially you JtC!

IMG_3456.JPG

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Which AIPAC/MIC/pharma/bank bought politician are you going to vote for? Don’t be surprised when nothing changes.

janis b's picture

@snoopydawg

Thanks for taking us along with you and your dawgs ; )

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ggersh's picture

and everyone else that makes this site the go
to site for the 99%

I sent what I could, hope it helps and the fundraiser
work enough to enable JtC to go forward with his great
work here.

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I never knew that the term "Never Again" only pertained to
those born Jewish

"Antisemite used to be someone who didn't like Jews
now it's someone who Jews don't like"

Heard from Margaret Kimberley

smiley7's picture

@ggersh
being here.

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As a lurker that seldom writes or comments I thank all who contribute to this site it is what keeps me sane most of time. Especially with all that is going on in this world that scares the living s!$# of me for my children and grand kids. Again thank you all and especially to jtc I love this place. Monthly know instead of by yearly!

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smiley7's picture

@strider58
continuing support. Children, so much we need to leave for our children; we must hope the good news of c99 reaches the powers at large.

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happy to be a first-time contributor to a very good site.

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smiley7's picture

@wokkamile
being here. And a belated welcome!

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janis b's picture

with people whose intentions, by nature, are inherently supportive. It’s sort of like a digital commune where everyone contributes something unique and mutually beneficial to the whole. That is definitely something to protect!

The sentiments of everyone here, and beyond I’m sure, are truly heartening.

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jobu's picture

Standing up for JtC and standing up now!

What C99 means to me.

We work we eat together
We need no swords
We will not bow to the masters or pay rent to the lords
We are free men, though we are poor
You diggers all stand up for glory stand up now

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwQwA_kFxoE]

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lotlizard's picture

@jobu  
but will arrange to feed the kitty when back “stateside” later this month.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAw0Ri4FSdM]

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so glad this forum is here. It's awesome. Thanks everyone.

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janis b's picture

@randtntx

Most people think,
Great God will come from the skies
Take away everything
And make everybody feel high
But if you know what life is worth
You will look for yours on earth
And now you see the light
You stand up for your rights. Jah!

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@janis b , it is nice. So many of these playing for change videos reflect a similar spirit that we very often get around here. I thought it would be apropos.
I think I first saw one of these posted by wendy davis, and I really do like many of them.

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janis b's picture

@randtntx

of the many great playing for change videos.

[video:https://youtu.be/20Ll1t_Evb0]

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@janis b love it. Thanks.

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Unabashed Liberal's picture

@janis b

this blurb about this video.

This is the final PFC Song Around The World featuring both Roger Ridley and Grandpa Elliott together and serves as a tribute to them both for all the love and talent they have shared with everyone who’s ever passed them by on the streets.

I remember asking Roger Ridley, “Why with a voice like yours are you playing music on the street?” He replied, “Man I’m in the joy business, I come out to be with the people.”

Check out the amazing vocals of Roger’s sister, Alice Tan Ridley, recorded live in Harlem, NYC, as she sings her final song with her brother.

RIP Roger, you live through the good we all create together in this world.

One Love,
Mark Johnson, Co-Founder of PFC

Pleasantry

Mollie

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.
~~Gilda Radner, Comedienne

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Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.

janis b's picture

@Unabashed Liberal

Here is one from Alice Tan Ridley ...

[video:https://youtu.be/DrCYx_Je5MM]

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Unabashed Liberal's picture

@janis b

Pleasantry

Mollie

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.
~~Gilda Radner, Comedienne

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Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.

Anja Geitz's picture

@randtntx

That was an awesome video. Thank you!

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

@Anja Geitz @Anja Geitz glad you enjoyed that.

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janis b's picture

The video was unavailable on my end, but I enjoyed watching this in it's place ...

[video:https://youtu.be/ADNbtAID5wM]

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Centaurea's picture

to be among people who are thinking for themselves.

A few weeks ago, I set up a monthly auto-pay donation to help keep this island of sanity going while the rest of the world (fingers crossed) wakes up.

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"Don't go back to sleep ... Don't go back to sleep ... Don't go back to sleep."
~Rumi

"If you want revolution, be it."
~Caitlin Johnstone

Thanks to all of you for making it happen. Smile

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Lurking in the wings is Hillary, like some terrifying bat hanging by her feet in a cavern below the DNC. A bat with theropod instincts. -- Fred Reed https://tinyurl.com/vgvuhcl

Anja Geitz's picture

@laurel

The beautiful things people can do together. Great video. Thanks for sharing, Laurel.

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

WaterLily's picture

@Anja Geitz Seems apropos:

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=087mi1e46us]

(I miss Clarence).

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Anja Geitz's picture

@WaterLily

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There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~ Minnie Aumonier

travelerxxx's picture

It occurs to me that I'd be lost without c99. I know of no other site where folks can so deftly slice through the avalanche of pure propaganda that faces us daily - and yet somehow arrive at the nuggets of truth.

C99 is where I go to find sanity. I don't leave here mad, thinking to harm some other being on this planet. There are other sites - many - that exist simply to churn hatred. C99 is the opposite.

While I've done one time donations in the past, I wanted to set up a recurring donation on the wonderful day of May first. I've been under the weather for a few days and have only now done it, a few minutes past midnight. At least I did it! Yea!

It's a good time to say "Thank-you!" to everyone who posts essays, comments, or passes on the work about this site. Especially thanks to those who moderate (Isn't it odd that it seems there's no mods here? ... even though there are?) and especially JtC who makes the gears mesh and oils the bearings.

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janis b's picture

@travelerxxx

I wanted to comment about the wonderful story and poignant image you drew of The Big-O. Your youthful connection was strongly felt in your writing.

Thought you might enjoy this relation of the tragedy from James Alexander, “bass guitarist for the Bar-Kays” who “discusses his start in the music business, the plane crash that killed his band mates and Otis Redding, and his observations of Memphis on the day of Dr. King’s assassination.”

[video:https://youtu.be/IHD3v9eFky8]

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travelerxxx's picture

@janis b

Thank-you, Janis. I had never seen that video with James. Somewhere I still have the 45 of that record he mentioned, Soul Finger. As soon as I first heard it, I went to the record store and bought it!

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janis b's picture

@travelerxxx

It was the first I heard it also. Your story inspired me to find out more about the band. I very much enjoyed James Alexander and his way of story-telling.

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That hasn't been said already but thanks to all that make this place truly A Home Away From Home.

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mimi's picture

All of you have said something very nice to JtC. I am the only one who - as usual- said something I now regret.

I would like to add a new comment.

I love JtC, I love C99. If I were a rich man ....

[video:https://youtu.be/RBHZFYpQ6nc]

I also would like to be a more 'up-lifting voice' to everybody. But how to do it I don't know. Because I come here when I am down and you all lift me up, at least for a little while - like a couple of hours - Wink

Thank you all for being here and for JtC to stick with us. It must be a pain in the neck some times. And considering how often you stick your neck out for us, it's just a miracle. Thank You.

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janis b's picture

@mimi

we know you better ; ).

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thanatokephaloides's picture

Were not for my long-standing relationship with c99, losing my mobility would have been the end of me. The friendships I have with my fellow c99ers have preserved (what's left of) my sanity.

It is truly hope for a generation (actually, more than one):

[video:https://youtu.be/Htjwd68Ovas]

Threw some coins into the kitty. Wish I could throw more!

Smile

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"US govt/military = bad. Russian govt/military = bad. Any politician wanting power = bad. Anyone wielding power = bad." --Shahryar

"All power corrupts absolutely!" -- thanatokephaloides

janis b's picture

@thanatokephaloides

Anyone who drops a Fat Freddy is my friend ; ).

[video:https://youtu.be/N47KnuP8B9Q]

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thanatokephaloides's picture

@janis b

Anyone who drops a Fat Freddy is my friend ; ).

Love it!

(And you, too, janis b!)

Wink

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"US govt/military = bad. Russian govt/military = bad. Any politician wanting power = bad. Anyone wielding power = bad." --Shahryar

"All power corrupts absolutely!" -- thanatokephaloides

janis b's picture

@thanatokephaloides

And sweet dreams to all ...

[video:https://youtu.be/HGfsf-d1aDc]

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